During the tests conducted, it was found that 67 percent of the tested samples do not meet current safety standards. In total, specialists checked 424 types of headlights installed on 165 cars.
The main drawbacks of the headlights were blinding high beams or insufficient visibility. The best result was demonstrated by the LED optics of the Genesis G90 and Lexus NX models. The Chevrolet Volt, Genesis G80, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Toyota Camry also received a "good" rating. As the tests showed, the level of equipment does not play a decisive role — even premium brand cars were among the laggards.
During testing, specialists reproduced many road conditions, including driving on a straight road, as well as smooth and sharp turns in both directions. The level of illumination and glare were recorded using special equipment, with low and high beams assessed separately. The data obtained were compared with reference optics, which IIHS experts consider ideal.
"Motorists should not buy the most expensive trim levels just to get the headlights needed for safe night trips. Even in the basic equipment of every new car, there should be high-quality optics," noted David Aylor, who is responsible for active safety tests at IIHS.
